As the end of another year approaches, not only do a myriad of things pile up that need to be checked off an incredibly large and ever-growing to-do list, but year after year of doing these same things over and over again might make them start to feel routine, causing us to lose connection to why we do them. Here’s a new little checklist for you:

TBA program director Dale Albright.

1.Holiday greetings: However you send your holiday greetings (snail mail, social media, singing telegram) holiday greetings are a great way to stay connected to your personal and professional networks. I think it’s a great idea to keep in mind that a good rule of thumb in contacting folks in your professional network is always “Have something new to say.” In the context of the holidays, I certainly wouldn’t sign a holiday card saying, “Invite me to audition for XX show,” “Hope to see you at ZZ show” or even updating any of your contact information. However, it’s great to include a personal reference to something specific for which you are thankful to this person or organization for bringing into your world in the past year. You’re sending holiday thoughts to these folks for a reason—don’t lose sight of why!

2.Holiday gifts: Businesses all over are inundated with cookies and various sweets over this holiday period. Everyone loves a good fruitcake (and those homemade sweets are always especially nice) but maybe take a moment and see what this person or organization could really utilize. Can you give the gift of time? Almost every organization, for example, is madly stuffing envelopes for their end-of-year donation campaign. Or maybe just spreading the word about organizations that are important to you through your own social media channels would be just as appreciated during this end-of-year rush. And remember, it’s the thought that counts!

3.End-of-year campaigns: And speaking of end-of-year campaigns, remember the organizations that are important to you, especially at this time of year. Some organizations might be too underresourced to do a fancy mailing campaign, but this is certainly the time of year to support those organizations that are important to you in time to get that yearly tax write-off. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Theatre Bay Area’s own end-of-year campaign (check out http://theatrebayarea.org/donations). Whether you can support TBA this year or not, hopefully there are some in-need arts organizations on your donation list this year. Certainly if you are reading this, the arts are important to you. Take this opportunity to support those that have had a particular impact on you this past year. Speaking from experience, everything is always appreciated!

Let me leave you with a thought of how thankful Theatre Bay Area is to have you as part of our community. And I personally feel blessed to call you all colleagues! Happy holidays!

Dale Albrightis program director for Theatre Bay Area, as well as an actor and freelance director.